Wednesday, August 22, 2012

Another Hemmes' Winner

Peter Gilmore wields chopsticks at Mr Wongwith Janni Kyritsis

You have to be quite brave to open up your brand spanking new restaurant to host the countries top foodies, chefs and restaurant owners representing 400 of Australia's best establishments but the Hemmes' family did just that last night for the 2012 Australian Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards.

John & Merivale Hemmes

Mr Wong is Justin Hemmes' new addition to his burgeoning $200M entertainment empire. Located in Bridge Street in the old Tank nightclub premises it's two floors of exquisite Chinese fare.

And there really was no surprise when the top gong went to Peter Gilmore, known for his "snow egg" dessert, as his restaurant Quay was crowned best restaurant.
Not satisfied with scooping up award after award around the world (Quay under Gilmore's stewardship is usually rated amongst the world's top eateries) this is third time Quay, which has a stunning views overlooking the harbour and Opera House has been named Australia's best eatery.

Justin Hemmes' Mr Wong

AUSTRALIAN GOURMET TRAVELLER AWARDS
Restaurant of the Year - Quay, Sydney
Best New Talent - Alejandro Cancino, Urbane, Brisbane
New Restaurant of the Year - Momofuku Seiobo, Sydney
Outstanding Contribution to Hospitality - Janni Kyritsis, chef
Chef of the Year - Ben Shewry, Attica, Melbourne
Sommelier of the Year - Banjo Harris Plane, Attica, Melbourne
Regional Restaurant of the Year - Loam, Drysdale, Victoria
Maitre D' of the Year - Ainslie Lubbock, Pei Modern, Melbourne
Bar of the Year - The Everleigh, Melbourne
Wine List of the Year - Carlton Wine Room, Melbourne

Peter Gilmore's Quay

As for the food at Mr Wong, there really isn't any point reviewing the food-it's quite simply sensational. You just have to check out yourself.